The University of Bristol has invested in a new source of energy that will help tackle global warming. Two new energy efficient units have been installed at the University, which will help reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 1,500 tonnes each year.

This is just one of the many environmental actions the University is undertaking to reduce its environmental impact and carbon footprint. The combined heat and power units are essentially two large engines, similar to car engines except that they run on gas, producing both heat and electricity.

The units will help reduce total carbon dioxide emissions and also save the University £280,000 each year. They are the first of many more units the University will be investing in to help protect the environment.

Professor Selby Knox, University of Bristol Pro Vice-Chancellor, who officially switched on the units, said: “The University is committed to reducing its environmental impact and where possible save resources and money. These units are a key element of the University’s work in addressing climate change.”

The University invests over £400,000 in energy and water saving initiatives each year, which has helped reduce its overall energy use by 18 per cent. Over 50 per cent of all University waste is either reused or recycled. All new buildings are designed to high environmental standards, helping reduce their energy use by up to 50 per cent.